DÜSSELDORF — Fortuna Düsseldorf was relegated to the 3. Liga and has responded with staff layoffs and the appointment of Samir Arabi as its new sporting director.

The club confirmed it had made "drastic cuts at all levels" following the relegation, resulting in the departure of numerous employees. In a statement, Fortuna Düsseldorf said, "Due to relegation to the 3rd division, we have unfortunately been forced to make drastic cuts at all levels and had to say goodbye to many valued employees this week for operational reasons." The statement added, "These are decisions that hurt us all, because those affected bear no responsibility for this situation and must now bear the consequences of the sporting development." It also expressed gratitude, saying, "We would like to sincerely thank all affected employees for your tireless dedication and your passion for Fortuna. With your commitment, you were a vital pillar of our club day in and day out. We wish you all the best for your future, both professionally and personally."

Sven Mislintat vacated his position as sporting director prior to Arabi’s appointment. Arabi, who previously experienced a similar scenario with Arminia Bielefeld in the 3. Liga in 2011, acknowledged the difficulty of the current circumstances. "It's a very difficult situation because it involves personal tragedies that come with professional football. I can empathize with the situation – Arminia Bielefeld faced a similar situation in the 3. Liga in 2011," he said.

Arabi emphasized his regional ties and commitment to rebuilding, stating, "I come from the Rhineland. When we first made contact, it quickly became clear to me that I had a strong desire to develop and build something here." He outlined a dual focus on ambition and realism, saying, "Expectations are high, and I'm aware of that. We need to have ambitious, but also realistic goals. We have to get out of this league. But that also means we have to create the necessary financial framework. We have to work on that in parallel to increase the likelihood that the club will return to where it belongs. This city, this location – this shouldn't normally be third-division football."